Many hotels, motels and B&Bs also offer reduced rates-- even some of the nation's most luxurious resorts. Always ask before making a reservation. Here are some that have particularly good deals and low rates.

(Keep in mind that these companies may change their offerings at the drop of a hat.)

[] Motel 6: 800-466-8356, http://www.motel6.com/

This company, which maintains it is the lowest priced of the national chains (a handful of its properties do have nightly rates in the low $20s!) now has 1,100+ locations in the U.S. and Canada. It welcomes pets and its standard amenities include free local phone calls, no long distance access charges, free morning coffee and free cable TV. Most locations have free Wi-Fi access, swimming pools and guest laundry facilities. (Laundries are not free.)

Its website has an excellent trip planning section in which it lists motels located near family theme parks.

Seniors (60+) and members of AARP typically (but not always) get a 10% discount and there are lower weekly rates if you stay seven days or more. 

[] Homewood Suites by Hilton: 800-CALL-HOME, http://www.homewoodsuites.com/

This chain is designed for longer stays, these studios and suites have a sitting/dining area, kitchen (refrig, microwave, toaster, dishwasher, coffeemaker) and a spacious bedroom and bath (blowdryer, iron/ironing board).

Regular and decafe coffee and a bag of microwave popcorn are provided at no cost -- to enjoy with a movie for which there is a charge.

Rates include a full hot breakfast and a pre-selected light evening supper (ranging from beef fajitas to meatball sub sandwiches) plus salad. Beer and wine are served where allowed by state law. Also included: Free Internet access and use of the workout room which opens early and closes late. Many locations have free wireless, an outdoor grill and a pool. Note: The light meal is served Monday through Thursday.

Homewood has a many great discounts. They vary from property to property and may include: A 5% discount for AAA members, lower rates for those age 55+, lower advance purchase rates for everyone and special deals for family and other types of reunions. 

[] La Quinta Inns: 800-567-7720, http://www.lq.com/

Most of the properties in this chain have free local and US calls, free wireless, luggage storage and a morning newspaper. Rates also include breakfast (hot and cold cereals, fresh fruit, bagels, muffins and unlimited coffee and juice).

There are discounts for those age 65+, government employees (federal, state, military), members of AARP and Sam's Club.

$TIP: The La Quinta in New York City is one of Manhattan's best deals. Located at 17 West 32nd Street, between Broadway and Fifth Avenue, this 182-room Beaux-Arts landmark has an indoor/outdoor rooftop bar with stunning views. Rooms are small but clean.

If you reserve 14 days in advance online, the starting rates on select dates in Manhattan are: $109.99 (queen), $124.99 (king) and $139.99 (two queens). 

[] Red Roof Inns: 800-733-7663, http://www.redroof.com/

This chain recently went upscale. Its new "Superior King Rooms" come with free Wi-Fi, unlimited local and long distance calls in the continental U.S., outbound/inbound fax service (up to 20 pages per stay), king-sized bed, ergonomic chair and L-shaped desk, microwave and refrigerator.

Free continental breakfast is served at a number of inns and many offer a 10% to 15% discount to those age 50+.

Note: Currently on its website -- a list of Red Roof Inns located near major league baseball parks around the country. Also posted: each baseball club's schedule.

Five Tips To Keep In Mind

•1)  Read the fine print. Deeply discounted online rates may be nonrefundable.

•2)  Know the day of the week. Generally, Monday through Thursday nights are pricier in business-type cities yet cheaper in resort areas. Alternatively, cities are cheaper on weekends and resorts more expensive.

•3)  Ask about a free night. During slow seasons, hotels, motels and B&Bs may give you a free night if you stay for several consecutive nights. Or, an extra night may be half price.

•4)  Call the hotel directly. Don't assume online rates are always the lowest.

•5)  Call or walk in after 6pm. If the hotel has not filled up, you may be able to negotiate a good rate.

         - Nancy Dunnan